Visit: The Momentary
Visit: The Momentary
It's not a museum, it's an experience
I'm the type of girl who ADORES traveling. I just love to explore, no matter how little or long the journey is or where it takes me. And I really enjoy seeing the amazing things that artists create all over the globe. So when I got the chance to go on a press trip to one of the coolest contemporary art spaces in America, The Momentary, it was an opportunity that I couldn't pass up. And when you add the chance to explore her big sister, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in the mix, it seriously made for the perfect girls' trip and the most interesting (and fun) days that I'd had in a while!
Ready to travel around the USA? Be sure to check out my travel guides for fun things to do in San Antonio, TX, Maui, HI, Oklahoma City, OK, and Houston, TX too!
About The Momentary
What is The Momentary?
The Momentary is the latest and greatest new contemporary art space to open in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas. Founded by Tom, Olivia, and Steuart Walton (of Walmart fame) and the Walton Family Foundation, The Momentary first opened its doors to the public on February 22, 2020. With the aim of improving the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas communities while also prioritizing cultural activities, The Momentary has become a must-see and must-experience for art and music enthusiasts since it was founded.
About the Building - Former Cheese Factory to Contemporary Art Space
Like its sibling, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, The Momentary’s origins are anything but boring. Once a cheese factory, the 63,000 square-foot existing building was remodeled into its current iteration by the design team of Wheeler Kearns Architects. A sleek, state-of-the-art, minimalist building that serves as the perfect backdrop for visual and performing arts, regional artists, and culinary arts within. And with plenty of open space outside, it’s perfect for wandering around and taking in an outdoor concert or checking out the latest exhibits.
Visiting The Momentary - What to Know Before You Go
Where is The Momentary Located?
Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, you'll find this space downtown in the city of Bentonville, Arkansas.
Address: 507 SE E St, Bentonville, AR
How Far Is The Momentary From Crystal Bridges?
Only about 1.5 miles away, you can walk or bike the distance. If you don't feel like walking or it's raining, drive the short distance instead. We opted for the latter option.
Is The Momentary Free?
The best thing about this museum? It's free! Yup, you read right. Thanks to the generosity of Walmart, The Momentary offers free general admission. You can tour the exhibits on display, interactive experiences inside and all around the outside grounds of The Momentary. So go ahead and explore without any worries about how much money you're going to need to spend.
How Long Does It Take To Go Through The Momentary?
I would feel confident in saying that you can tour the entire indoor exhibition space from beginning to end in 45 minutes to an hour or so. However, you should definitely allow time to wander the grounds and check out all the fun and funky outdoor installations or catch an outdoor concert on The Momentary's Greenspace.
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What to See and Do At The Momentary
If you want a fun alternative to the traditional museum visit, The Momentary is the place for you.
The literal definition of the word "momentary" means lasting for a very short amount of time. In the case of the art found inside this truly unique space, the meaning couldn't be more fitting. The curatorial team is constantly rotating through new exhibits, so the visual art you'll see in the future will be different from the one you saw on your previous visit.
What Are the Museum Highlights?
One of the most popular areas is the Tower Bar. This 1960s inspired space offers stellar views of Bentonville, as well as cocktails. The Tower Bar is the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of The Momentary.
Sipping java at Onyx Coffee Lab is another popular activity among visitors. This local coffee shop is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of the Ozark's finest coffee.
Enjoy the outside art and music? Check out the outdoor concerts held on the lawn, The Momentary Green. These free concerts are held from May through early September.
Final Thoughts About My Visit The Momentary
When you visit Bentonville, The Momentary shouldn't be your last stop but rather one of many stops on an adventure that will leave you feeling inspired! Don't forget to take in the stellar views from the Tower Bar that offer cocktails as well as coffee at Onyx Coffee Lab. You can even enjoy outdoor art while taking in a concert on The Momentary Green. I hope this little travel guide has given you some insight into both what's inside The Momentary as well as what surrounds it.
Please feel free to reach out on social media or leave me a comment below if there are any questions about my visit that I can help answer!
Thanks for reading and happy travels!
-XOXO (as always)
Mel D.
Photography by Melissa "Mel" Drake + additional photos courtesy of The Momentary, Bentonville, Arkansas
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